Wii U firmware update now available, over 5GB of data

Whether you’re purchasing your Wii U at midnight tonight or buying it when you wake up, Nintendo’s latest system is now available. As you hook up your system and prepare to play it, you’ll need to download a rather massive update before having access to its full functionality.

Nintendo has released a 5GB update that unlocks online play as well as the ability to play Wii games and access Wii game data. Before you’re able to access Nintendo’s Miiverse or quite a few other features you’ll need to complete the rather massive download. There’s no background download functionality, so you’ll need to allow the system to fully complete the update before you’re able to resume any other function.

For users that have received their Wii U, download reports have exceeded 2 hours in certain cases. While it will certainly be somewhat dependent on your internet connection, it’s a bit of a pain to have to sit through such a long download when you’re anxious to use your system.

What do you think about the large update for the system to unlock certain features? What games are you picking up for the Wii U? Be sure to let us know what you think by leaving us a comment below, or discuss the Wii U in our forums.